On Chen Li-te's Migration Studies

Chen Li-te,an expert in the history studies of overseas Chinese in the early stage of China,had paid close attention specifically to overseas Chinese in Europe since 1927.He got into contact with a large number of overseas Chinese and saw how they lived with his own eyes when studying abroad in University of Paris.As an executive committee member of the General Branch to France,he learnt more from investigations in multiple European countries.In 1933,considering lack of books about overseas Chinese in Europe,Chen Li-te devoted himself into studying related issues based on quantities of practical data after his return.He published extensive articles and books referring to overseas Chinese mainly including two aspects,which had important significance in the overseas Chinese early history research.For one thing,he discussed about the evolution of migration policies in both China and abroad,especially in Italy.For another,he analyzed the living status of overseas Chinese in Europe,containing why they emigrated,how they lived,what business and political events they were involved in as well as various actions to control immigration and reject overseas Chinese in every country.In addition to collecting and collating survey data,Chen Li-te created an unique genre of migration theory system on basis of theoretical discussion about diverse subjects,such as migration reason,gains and losses of migration and the relationship between quality and quantity of migration.On this basis,Chen Li-te reviewed and reflected migration issues in China and moreover put forward a series of effective measures in terms of investigational and practical experience to improve affairs concerning overseas Chinese in Europe.In a nutshell,Chen's pioneering explorations aiming at solving major problems for overseas Chinese had laid the solid foundation for the start of overseas Chinese research in China and provided future studies with significant historical materials as well as constructive ideas.It was more than that.Chen Li-te's theories and thoughts meant much more on the development of modern migration in China.This paper is tentatively intended to deeply analyze Chen Li-te's research works on migration,review and summarize the research achievements and contributions he had made,and eventually make a comment on their research values in migration.